Forums

Thank God - 209 -

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:43:05 +0000

I Thank God for....

Romans 1:1-4
1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God-- 2 the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures 3 regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, 4 and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 1:16-20
16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith." 18 The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, 19 since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20 For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

Romans 3:19-26
19 Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. 20 Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. 21 But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished-- 26 he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.

Romans 10:9-13
9 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. 11 As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame."
12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile--the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, 13 for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Acts 26:20-23
20 "First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I [Paul] preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds. 21 That is why the Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me. 22 But I have had God's help to this very day, and so I stand here and testify to small and great alike. I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen-- 23 that the Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles."

Thank God - 208 -

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 01:17:57 +0000

I Thank God for...

Thank God - 207 -

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 06:17:22 +0000

I Thank God for....

I thank HIM for MOSES!

He was the only one, who's only hearts desire was to meet with God face to face, and under the old covenant he was not able to do so, but God being so loving, showed him HIS back, GLORY! now we have Jesus, and Jesus said " I and My Father are ONE " so now we can meet with God face to face, OH THE GLORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

How Big Is God?

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:01:16 +0000

There is no physical space large enough to contain God, in all His fullness and glory. In our simple, logical minds, this seems simple, yet profound enough. But, we just can not comprehend how broad this statement really is. God is larger than time and space itself, and we are confined to ours, for now.

First, all we could observe was with the naked eye. Then we discovered the telescope. At the present, we have discovered that placing the "Hubble" telescope out into the sky, that we can observe things and places we had never seen before, in such detail. And yet, there is still that "third heaven", out there.

We can place a satellite up in space, and observe and gather information to be used to guide 'smart bombs', and observe the movements and actions of those we consider an enemy. And yet, we can only see the 'effects' of 'spiritual wickedness in high places', but who could truly observe with electronics or any physical senses?

We have now found that we each have special DNA, that makes us each unique and different, yet, we can not truly understand or observe what would cause one to love God, and another to hate Him.

We know that in the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth. I believe that God has told us all that we need to know to understand about that, and I will accept as He revealed to us, without the questions, or theories, or what if's. Yet, all that is contained in the heaven, I simply marvel at, and, I know that God is to be even MORE marveled. Heb. 4:14, Eph. 4:9,10.

God is eternal. No beginning. No end. What device or intellect does mankind have that could measure that? When were the angels created? Precisely when, did they rebel? If God has not revealed this to us in scripture, then how is anybody gonna know, just like everything else, regarding?

Hebrews tells us, that God has spoken to us in 'these last days', by His Son, Heb. Chapter One. But, are we truly content with this? Or, are many searching for more? I read quite often here, about "putting God in a box". Well, I can truthfully say this, regarding that. He took on flesh. He endured a cross. He spilled real blood for sin, as a propitiation for them. That is a box, so to speak, that He willingly got into, for His creation, He was not put there against His will.

This is what the True God did. This is how much God loved His creation. What other god has such love for creation? Other gods require a worthiness, of will and submission. The True God, rather, provides them, through HIS works, not ours. With other gods, love is given as it is earned. With the True God, love is given before it is earned. Rather, we love Him, because HE first loved us. Rom. 5:8, 1st John 4:10. Such love is what compels us. 2nd Cor. 5:14,15.

God was revealed in JESUS CHRIST. He is the prophet Moses spoke of to come. He is the Messiah that was hidden from His own, so that the Gentiles could be grafted in. Be not high-minded and boastful, but rather fear. Those who saw Jesus Christ also saw the Father. As His apostle John wrote, "He was in the world, the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not." John 1:10. God dwelt in human flesh, and yet no space can contain Him, He is bigger and higher than all.

This is considered foolishness, to many. Yet God has revealed Himself to us in this way. I truly hope this is a real blessing to someone. Searching for God? Then, find Him, in Jesus Christ. Col. 1:12-20.

Thank God - 206 -

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:36:46 +0000

I Thank God for...

1 Samuel 17

1 NOW THE Philistines gathered their armies for battle and were assembled at Socoh, which belongs to Judah, and encamped between Socoh and Azekah in Ephes-dammim.2 Saul and the men of Israel were encamped in the Valley of Elah and drew up in battle array against the Philistines.3 And the Philistines stood on a mountain on one side and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side, with the valley between them.4 And a champion went out of the camp of the Philistines named Goliath of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span [almost ten feet].5 And he had a bronze helmet on his head and wore a coat of mail, and the coat weighed 5,000 shekels of bronze.6 He had bronze shin armor on his legs and a bronze javelin across his shoulders.7 And the shaft of his spear was like a weaver’s beam; his spear’s head weighed 600 shekels of iron. And a shield bearer went before him.8 Goliath stood and shouted to the ranks of Israel, Why have you come out to draw up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and are you not servants of Saul? Choose a man for yourselves and let him come down to me.9 If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will be your servants; but if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall be our servants and serve us.10 And the Philistine said, I defy the ranks of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together.11 When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed and greatly afraid.12 David was the son of an Ephrathite of Bethlehem in Judah named Jesse, who had eight sons. [Jesse] in the days of Saul was old, advanced in years.13 [His] three eldest sons had followed Saul into battle. Their names were Eliab the firstborn; next, Abinadab; and third, Shammah.14 David was the youngest. The three eldest followed Saul,15 But David went back and forth from Saul to feed his father’s sheep at Bethlehem.16 The Philistine came out morning and evening, presenting himself for forty days.17 And Jesse said to David his son, Take for your brothers an ephah of this parched grain and these ten loaves and carry them quickly to your brothers at the camp.18 Also take these ten cheeses to the commander of their thousand. See how your brothers fare and bring some token from them.19 Now Saul and the brothers and all the men of Israel were in the Valley of Elah, fighting with the Philistines.20 So David rose up early next morning, left the sheep with a keeper, took the provisions, and went, as Jesse had commanded him. And he came to the encampment as the host going forth to the battleground shouted the battle cry.21 And Israel and the Philistines put the battle in array, army against army.22 David left his packages in the care of the baggage keeper and ran into the ranks and came and greeted his brothers.23 As they talked, behold, Goliath, the champion, the Philistine of Gath, came forth from the Philistine ranks and spoke the same words as before, and David heard him.24 And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, terrified.25 And the Israelites said, Have you seen this man who has come out? Surely he has come out to defy Israel; and the man who kills him the king will enrich with great riches, and will give him his daughter and make his father’s house free [from taxes and service] in Israel.26 And David said to the men standing by him, What shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?27 And the [men] told him, Thus shall it be done for the man who kills him.28 Now Eliab his eldest brother heard what he said to the men; and Eliab’s anger was kindled against David and he said, Why did you come here? With whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your presumption and evilness of heart; for you came down that you might see the battle.29 And David said, What have I done now? Was it not a harmless question?30 And David turned away from Eliab to another and he asked the same question, and again the men gave him the same answer.31 When David’s words were heard, they were repeated to Saul, and he sent for him.32 David said to Saul, Let no man’s heart fail because of this Philistine; your servant will go out and fight with him.33 And Saul said to David, You are not able to go to fight against this Philistine. You are only an adolescent, and he has been a warrior from his youth.34 And David said to Saul, Your servant kept his father’s sheep. And when there came a lion or again a bear and took a lamb out of the flock,35 I went out after it and smote it and delivered the lamb out of its mouth; and when it arose against me, I caught it by its beard and smote it and killed it.36 Your servant killed both the lion and the bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God!37 David said, The Lord Who delivered me out of the paw of the lion and out of the paw of the bear, He will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said to David, Go, and the Lord be with you!38 Then Saul clothed David with his armor; he put a bronze helmet on his head and clothed him with a coat of mail.39 And David girded his sword over his armor. Then he tried to go, but could not, for he was not used to it. And David said to Saul, I cannot go with these, for I am not used to them. And David took them off.40 Then he took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones out of the brook and put them in his shepherd’s [lunch] bag [a whole kid’s skin slung from his shoulder], in his pouch, and his sling was in his hand, and he drew near the Philistine.41 The Philistine came on and drew near to David, the man who bore the shield going before him.42 And when the Philistine looked around and saw David, he scorned and despised him, for he was but an adolescent, with a healthy reddish color and a fair face.43 And the Philistine said to David, Am I a dog, that you should come to me with sticks? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.44 The Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field.45 Then said David to the Philistine, You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the ranks of Israel, Whom you have defied.46 This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will smite you and cut off your head. And I will give the corpses of the army of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.47 And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saves not with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.48 When the Philistine came forward to meet David, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine.49 David put his hand into his bag and took out a stone and slung it, and it struck the Philistine, sinking into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth.50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and struck down the Philistine and slew him. But no sword was in David’s hand.51 So he ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath, and killed him, and cut off his head with it. When the Philistines saw that their mighty champion was dead, they fled.52 And the men of Israel and Judah rose with a shout and pursued the Philistines as far as Gath and the gates of Ekron. So the wounded Philistines fell along the way from Shaaraim as far as Gath and Ekron.53 The Israelites returned from their pursuit of the Philistines and plundered their tents.54 David took the head of the Philistine and brought it to Jerusalem, but he put his armor in his tent.55 When Saul saw David go out against the Philistine, he said to Abner, the captain of the host, Abner, whose son is this youth? And Abner said, As your soul lives, O king, I cannot tell.56 And the king said, Inquire whose son the stripling is.57 When David returned from killing Goliath the Philistine, Abner brought him before Saul with the head of the Philistine in his hand.58 And Saul said to him, Whose son are you, young man? And David answered, I am the son of your servant Jesse of Bethlehem.

The Night Is Far Spent, The Day Is At Hand

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:56:36 +0000

Romans 13:11-14. There are about four places I am drawn to often, out in the quiet of the country, where I just get away to pray, study, and write. Why, I am just drawn to them, like a bee to nectar. This morning as I was driving out to one of them, I noticed buttercups in bloom, and also some vines growing on the fence rows, also are in bloom. This is February 4th, and such is not normal for this part of the world I live in.

I drove past an old country store, one that was built many decades ago, over 70, and it is still being used in this small rural community. they were open and serving breakfast, and cars were parked all around the small place, and I also passed some couples who were going there on foot, to enjoy some old-fashioned breakfast, and some old-fashioned community fellowship.

But, What is going on? Where are things heading on this earth? Just about anyone you meet, anywhere, and talk with, are concerned about the state of things, upon this place called earth. Even those who do not look toward God Almighty, or His Holy scripture, are also troubled about the state of things. Are we headed for a war like none other? Who with, and how, when? Who would survive such a vast, violent, world-wide war, with the technology available now?

What about our economies? Our morals? Who has any real answers for us? Will things get worse, or better? Who defines that they are, and regarding what?

What is defined as better of one secular part of the world, is seen entirely different of another secular part. Where would we find any real answers, in the secular world?

Can we trust what the Holy Bible says, anymore? Or, do we have more modern and complete revelations of God, and different prophecies now? Can we really trust Gods word? Is God the cause of our division? Does God author confusion?

Who is JESUS CHRIST? Just another prophet? Was He who He and His followers said? THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD? Was the blood that HE shed at His crucifixion, the atonement for, the propitiation, for sin? Is HE the true Messiah of God? Is HE truly Lord of lords, and King of kings? What does this secular world believe about this?

Is this JESUS CHRIST going to indeed return, as HE promised? Why is GOD so seemingly distant and silent in this present world, toward the masses here on earth? Are we reaping our disobedience and unbelief towards GOD, and His Son JESUS CHRIST?

One of the movies of years past, 'Judgement', that portrays in part about what conditions could be, toward the end of days, places God on trial. Many of the questions they ask there, and comments they portray, have been heard and asked often, of many in the secular world. In the past, the present, and will be future.

The Holy Bible gives us no exact timeframe, but does give us prophetic signs which to watch for, of the return of JESUS CHRIST, and what will be happening when He does. For those not heeding the signs, or watching for His coming, He warned us He would find such unprepared, and come upon them unaware. Is this something we should be warning the secular world about?

Yes, we should be. Only an enemy would attempt to silence the alarm. Which one are you? Maranatha, not said much, but it is sure to happen. It is "nearer" indeed, (verse 11, above). And, (Verse 14), "Put on the Lord Jesus Christ", and be found in Him. He is the ONLY shelter from that storm which is to come. Or, the consequences of unbelief and neglect will be forever regretted. Do not ignore, please. This is one part none can be wrong about, and yet stand before Him then, and at that time.

God Bless

Thank God - 205 -

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:47:29 +0000

I Thank God for...

" And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us "

You know, Christmas is over, and people get busy again with life, but Christmas is never over because Jesus is alive!

Take a moment, to thank HIM!

Thank God - 204 -

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:44:36 +0000

I Thank God for....

" Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane "

Matthew 26:36-46
36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." 37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me." 39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." 40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter. 41 "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak." 42 He went away a second time and prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done." 43 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. 44 So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. 45 Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"

Thank God - 203 -

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:56:53 +0000

I Thank God for...

" Always Looking For God for My Help "

Hebrews 4:13-16
13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. 14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin. 16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

"occupy, Till I Come"

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 02:01:07 +0000

Luke 19:13. The definition is 'busy oneself', 'trade', used here as to 'occupy'. No alternate meanings, or words, are used. This is not tied into wall Street, or the like, either.

I suppose many would engage in debate about what is meant here. Who. What. When. Where. How. Why. To read in the limited lenses of the different 'isms', 'ist', views and theologies, would be explained in different ways. I believe this simply refers to the time when all will be called into account. Such as also Luke 12: 34-46, (note v. 41).

There are basic foundational beliefs that have been held among the christian believers for centuries, since the start of Christ' church, the body of Christ. The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The virgin birth, the coming of Jesus Christ, the incarnation. The power and purpose of the Holy Spirit leading, bringing us alive in Christ. Salvation provided in the Lord Jesus Christ. The bride of Christ, His body, the church herself. Obedience and faithfulness to God through our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ. Baptisms. Communion. The physical and visible return of Jesus Christ. The resurrection of the dead, both of the just, and the unjust. Eternal judgement, of both the saved, and the unsaved.

Throughout the history of Christ' church we have seen times of apostasy, of revival, or spiritual awakenings. Also, during those same times, we have seen the uprisings of sects, of leaven, that later would be considered heresy, robbing from the gospel of Christ, leading to shipwreck and bondage, in some form or another. There are some now seeking to destroy even the basic beliefs.

In the very beginning, in the book of Acts, we see evidence of these uprisings, in Acts 15:10, Peter states, "Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear." Yet, here we are, about to enter 2012, if Christ tarries, and many are still dragging around that yoke, trying to place it upon not only Jewish brothers and sisters, but Gentile ones as well. Satan has been working, waging war, against the power and the wisdom of God found in Jesus Christ, since the beginning of His body, the universal church of Jesus Christ, and he will not relent at all in that engagement, and neither should those who are in Christ.

Jesus Christ is going to return, just as He promised, John 14:1-3. He will come in great power and glory, Matt. 24:30, Mark 13:26, Luke 21:27. His return will be a visible one, every eye will behold Him, Acts 1: 11,12, and Revelation 1:7. Those asleep in Christ will be raised, 1st Thessalonians 4: 14-18. That wicked one prophesied to come will be destroyed at the brightness of His coming, 2nd Thessalonians Chapter 2.

When He returns the second time, He will return unto salvation, Hebrews 9:28, to those looking, watching, waiting and ready. Colossians 3:4. 1st John 3:2,3. 1st Peter 5:4. This gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ has been proclaimed throughout the earth, and those redeemed by Jesus Christ are looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the Great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, Titus 2: 11-14. Let nothing, no-one, rob you of that blessed hope, and the need to be watching for His coming. Mark 13: 37.

As the early saints once declared to each other, Maranatha. We are closer today than we have ever been before in history of this earth. Revelation Chapter 22.

God Bless.

Thank God - 202 -

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 23:33:19 +0000

I Thank God For....

" Your Choice is Your Way "

Life’s greatest victories and worst failures are often the result of personal choices, the crossroad catalysts of life. In making these momentous decisions, you reveal where your trust is placed . . . either in yourself or in God. According to the Bible, there are significant consequences that result from choosing your own way instead of God’s way. For example, you are guaranteed foolishness when you choose your own natural wisdom (1 Corinthians 3:19), which inherently gravitates toward pride, coveting, and gratifying fleshly desires (1 John 2:16). You can expect deficiency when you ignore God’s ways and thoughts and, instead, choose your own perspective (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Thank God - 201 -

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:48:04 +0000

I Thank God for...

Thank God - 200 -

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:57:27 +0000

I Thank God for...

" People of all backgrounds following him "

Thank God - 199 -

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 22:47:18 +0000

I Thank God for...

"Are you Ready?"

"Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." Acts 1:11

We tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18

Andrew Strom's Forum Closing Down

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 17:35:05 +0000

After a visit to Andrew Strom's forum website @ http://www.johnthebaptisttv.com/bbpress I see the topic of discussion is that their forum is closing down. This is a kiwi ministry. It seems as though his forum has attracted too many religious people (based on Andrew's statement) and that many of the topics had become "ugly".

I guess one would like to bring the "good" people here but one doesn't know how to do that without also bringing the "bad" people also. Anyway, I thought it might be newsworthy to mention it here.

Thank God - 198 -

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:12:38 +0000

I Thank God for....

" Heaven On Earth "

Thank God - 197 -

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:05:46 +0000

I Thank God for...

Thank God - 196 -

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 02:07:13 +0000

I Thank God for...

Thank God - 195 -

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:50:32 +0000

I Thank God for...

" Taking Jesus to the CITY "

Thank God - 194 -

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 01:04:07 +0000

I Thank God For...

" Breakthrough "

Isaiah 58:8
New King James Version (NKJV)
8 Then your light shall break forth like the morning,
Your healing shall spring forth speedily,
And your righteousness shall go before you;
The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.

Thank God - 193 -

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 02:18:31 +0000

I Thank God for...

Matthew 19:13-14
13 Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Thank God - 192 -

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 01:48:35 +0000

I Thank God...

Daniel 6:11-23
11 Then these men went as a group and found Daniel praying and asking God for help.

12 So they went to the king and spoke to him about his royal decree: "Did you not publish a decree that during the next thirty days anyone who prays to any god or man except to you, O king, would be thrown into the lions' den?"

The king answered, "The decree stands--in accordance with the laws of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed."

13 Then they said to the king, "Daniel, who is one of the exiles from Judah, pays no attention to you, O king, or to the decree you put in writing. He still prays three times a day."

14 When the king heard this, he was greatly distressed; he was determined to rescue Daniel and made every effort until sundown to save him.

15 Then the men went as a group to the king and said to him, "Remember, O king, that according to the law of the Medes and Persians no decree or edict that the king issues can be changed." 16 So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions' den.

The king said to Daniel, "May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!" 17 A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles, so that Daniel's situation might not be changed.

18 Then the king returned to his palace and spent the night without eating and without any entertainment being brought to him. And he could not sleep.

19 At the first light of dawn, the king got up and hurried to the lions' den. 20 When he came near the den, he called to Daniel in an anguished voice, "Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?"

21 Daniel answered, "O king, live forever! 22 My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, O king."

23 The king was overjoyed and gave orders to lift Daniel out of the den. And when Daniel was lifted from the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.

Thank God - 191 -

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 02:47:38 +0000

I Thank God for...

For Jesus.... Who is my Shepard

Happy New Year!!

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:20:23 +0000

Happy New Year Everyone, from all of us at TeamJesus Community!

We pray you have an awesome one, and that your all blessed!!

Again, Bless you!

Thank God - 190 -

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 22:45:21 +0000

I Thank God for...

For Jesus giving sight to the blind, i was once blind, but now i see! I was blind to the fact that HE is LORD, and that HE died for me! But HE took care of that and healed ME! NOW I SEE!! I see that HE IS LORD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAY! Thank you JESUS!

Glory To God In The Highest

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 01:55:13 +0000

Many will read the accounts in Luke, or in Matthew, of the coming of the Saviour that night. No room in the inn. The angels announcement to the shepherds. Harkrider wrote an excellent blog on the true meaning of Christmas. One lost in much of the hustle and bustle of society now.

I went to eat breakfast with the brothers and sisters in my immediate family yesterday, at a local restaurant. A new tradition we do this time every year. It is always good to visit with family. We will celebrate with our own individual families next week. With the inheritance I received at the passing of my mom and dad, I bought a painting titled "Joy to the World."

It is a nostalgic scene. Snow covered, with a church like one of yesteryear. Just an A-frame building, a small country church, with the double doors and steps in front, and the steeple, and the cross at the top of the steeple, letting all know what the building was designed for. A live nativity scene set-up, in front of the church. People arriving on foot, and others in sleds drawn by horses, in celebration of the coming of the Savior.

At this time we always remember pleasant thoughts of years past. The bad memories are no doubt still there, but we do not dwell on those. The season is still just as important concerning why we as Christians celebrate, but for me personally it just isn't the same anymore.

I watched on the news station, of a controversy about a cross being atop a water-tower. It has been there for years, according to the one who was appearing on the broadcast, and he gave a great testimony of its meaning to those who believe in Jesus Christ, as a reminder of what occurred at the cross our Lord Jesus Christ died upon, on the drive by everyday.

The one who had made the world, (John 1:1,14), (Col. 1:15-20), would come to us as a babe, and be laid in a manger, a feeding trough for the animals. Wrapped in swaddling clothes. Such a humble entry for one who has the name above ALL names, and is King of all kings, and Lord of all lords. His coming was not celebrated of royalty of the time, no preparation was planned and organized as would seem fitting for the Greatest to ever set foot upon this earth, bar none.

The announcement was shared not with the highest religious authorities of the day, but brought to lowly shepherds, as they were in the field, keeping watch over their flock that night. Luke 2:7-18. Verse 14 says, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good will toward men!" Declared with the angel, a multitude of the heavenly host . What an honor for these shepherds to hear. Maybe that is the most precious of the account. That our Lord would come as most of us would. That the news would be brought not to the rich and famous, but to the common, as is most of us.

That the greatest gift to ever be given, would be available to ALL, who would only ask and seek. But, valued most, by the humble and the lowly. No certain classification required of God. Just a person who knows that nothing they can bring, besides a broken spirit, repentance toward God, and belief in His Son Jesus Christ, is worthy of His acceptance. A gift. From God. One that brings comfort, peace, riches not worthy or comparable this world can offer, and available to "whosoever believeth". The power of God Himself to lead one willing to follow.

The earth suffers and longs for peace. Deliverance from the bondage of corruption. It will only come through Jesus Christ. He came then as a babe, to be the Savior. What He came to do, He accomplished. An empty tomb, and over 500 brethren gave witness to that. And a number unknown, since then, who found grace, and peace with God, through Jesus Christ. He has promised to yet return again, when the harvest is ready.

Yes, I treasure His birth, as recorded and re-read every year, preferably more than that. But now, I find myself thinking more on His return. And, on the precious gift, that is living inside me now, through nothing but grace, and all that Jesus Christ came to provide. Nothing, is more tragic, or unforgivable, than to reject, or trample upon, a precious gift, that is given purely in love.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, really.

Thank God - 189 -

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 01:45:40 +0000

I Thank God For...

I Thank God, For December 25th, " Jesus is the reason " Because without HIM my life would not be as rich and fulfilling is it is, right this very moment!, Thank you so much Lord God, for your SON Jesus The Christ, Who came, upon the world this day!! Thank you LORD!!

Thank God - 188 -

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 02:35:14 +0000

I Thank HIM for....

" Footprints in the sand "

One night I had a dream--
I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord
and across the sky flashed scenes from my life.
For each scene I noticed two sets of footprints,
one belonged to me and the other to the Lord.
When the last scene of my life flashed before me,
I looked back at the footprints in the sand.
I noticed that many times along the path of my life,
there was only one set of footprints.
I also noticed that it happened at the very lowest
and saddest times in my life.
This really bothered me and I questioned the Lord about it.
"Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you,
you would walk with me all the way,
but I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life
there is only one set of footprints.
"I don't understand why in times when I needed you most,
you should leave me."
The Lord replied, "My precious, precious child,
I love you and I would never, never leave you
during your times of trial and suffering.
When you saw only one set of footprints,
it was then that I carried you."

Thank God - 187 -

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:14:11 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

Thank God - 186 -

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:02:40 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

John 21:1-14

1. Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias. It happened this way:
2. Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together.
3. "I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
4. Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
5. He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?" "No," they answered.
6. He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
7. Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.
8. The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards.
9. When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.
10. Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught."
11. Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn.
12. Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord.
13. Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish.
14. This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.

Thank God - 185 -

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 21:25:12 +0000

I thank God for..

Exodus 3

1 Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb.
2 And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.
3 And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.
4 And when the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I.
5 And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.
6 Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.

Thank God - 184 -

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 01:49:24 +0000

I Thank God for...

Exodus 2:1-10

1 Now a man from the house of Levi went and took as his wife a Levite woman.

2 The woman conceived and bore a son, and when she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him three months.
3 When she could hide him no longer, she took for him a basket made of bulrushesa and daubed it with bitumen and pitch. She put the child in it and placed it among the reeds by the river bank.
4 And his sister stood at a distance to know what would be done to him.

5 Now the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river, while her young women walked beside the river. She saw the basket among the reeds and sent her servant woman, and she took it.
6 When she opened it, she saw the child, and behold, the baby was crying. She took pity on him and said, “This is one of the Hebrews’ children.”
7 Then his sister said to Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and call you a nurse from the Hebrew women to nurse the child for you?”
8 And Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Go.” So the girl went and called the child’s mother.
9And Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him.

10When the child grew up, she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son. She named him Moses, “Because,” she said, “I drew him out of the water.

I Thank God - 183 -

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:49:19 +0000

I Thank God for...

Mark 6:54-56
54 As soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus. 55 They ran throughout that whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56 And wherever he went--into villages, towns or countryside--they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched him were healed.

Thank God - 182 -

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:39:16 +0000

I Thank God for...

Luke 24:13-35
13 Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. 15 As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; 16 but they were kept from recognizing him.

17 He asked them, "What are you discussing together as you walk along?"

They stood still, their faces downcast. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, "Are you only a visitor to Jerusalem and do not know the things that have happened there in these days?"

19 "What things?" he asked.

"About Jesus of Nazareth," they replied. "He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. 20 The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; 21 but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. 22 In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning 23 but didn't find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. 24 Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see."

25 He said to them, "How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?" 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

28 As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if he were going farther. 29 But they urged him strongly, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them.

30 When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They asked each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?"

33 They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together 34 and saying, "It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon." 35 Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.

Thank God - 181 -

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 23:02:21 +0000

I Thank God for...

Mark 12:41-44

41 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.42 And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing.43 And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury:44 For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.

Thank God - 180 -

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 01:05:27 +0000

I Thank God for...

The LORD Calls Samuel

1. The boy Samuel ministered before the LORD under Eli. In those days the word of the LORD was rare; there were not many visions.
2. One night Eli, whose eyes were becoming so weak that he could barely see, was lying down in his usual place.
3. The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was.
4. Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, "Here I am."
5. And he ran to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." But Eli said, "I did not call; go back and lie down." So he went and lay down.
6. Again the LORD called, "Samuel!" And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." "My son," Eli said, "I did not call; go back and lie down."
7. Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord: The word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.
8. The LORD called Samuel a third time, and Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, "Here I am; you called me." Then Eli realized that the LORD was calling the boy.
9. So Eli told Samuel, "Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, 'Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.' " So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
10. The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
11. And the LORD said to Samuel: "See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle.
12. At that time I will carry out against Eli everything I spoke against his family--from beginning to end.
13. For I told him that I would judge his family forever because of the sin he knew about; his sons made themselves contemptible, and he failed to restrain them.
14. Therefore, I swore to the house of Eli, 'The guilt of Eli's house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.' "
15. Samuel lay down until morning and then opened the doors of the house of the Lord. He was afraid to tell Eli the vision,
16. but Eli called him and said, "Samuel, my son." Samuel answered, "Here I am."
17. "What was it he said to you?" Eli asked. "Do not hide it from me. May God deal with you, be it ever so severely, if you hide from me anything he told you."
18. So Samuel told him everything, hiding nothing from him. Then Eli said, "He is the Lord; let him do what is good in his eyes."
19. The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground.

Thank God - 179 -

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:25:00 +0000

I Thank God for...

John 19:26-27
26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son," 27 and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.

Matthew 27:50-56
50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. 51 At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. 52 The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. 53 They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus' resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people. 54 When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, "Surely he was the Son of God!" 55 Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. 56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's sons.

Thank God - 178 -

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:22:45 +0000

I Thank God for...

Matthew 1:23
"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"--which means, "God with us."

Luke 2:1-7
1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to his own town to register.

4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Isaiah 9:6-7
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Philippians 2:5-11
5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-- even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Thank God - 177 -

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:20:31 +0000

I Thank God for...

Acts 1:6-12
6. So when they met together, they asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?"
7. He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.
8. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
9. After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.
10. They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them.
11. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."
12. Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day's walk from the city.

Thank God - 176 -

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:15:07 +0000

I Thank God for....

Scene's from the book of revelations

Mary Did You Know?

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 01:25:33 +0000

Luke 1:30-33
You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him a throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.

I have been thinking a lot this Christmas season about Mary and what emotion she must have been feeling in the approaching birth of her first son Jesus. It is easy to forget that she was just a babe herself at the age of 15. I know for myself with the approaching birth of both of our children my husband and I were filled with such joy, anticipation, with a hint of anxiety. Can you imagine how much more these emotions must have run through Joseph and Mary for they both knew that she would soon give birth to God in the flesh, they will call him Immanuel - which means, God with us.

Then imagine the night that He was born. Did she marvel at the fact that she was kissing the face of God. Did she marvel at this tiny life a miracle in itself but how much more of a miracle was He. Was she filled with fear for the road that lay ahead, did she even think such things. Or was she just grateful for the gift that was given in that moment. I wonder such things especially when I look at my 2 small children and I think back to the day that they both made their appearance into this world.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Then in my mind I fast forward to Jesus' ministry. What must have run through this woman s mind. Did she doubt? Scripture tells us that she did, how quickly we forget the promises made to us by God Himself. We know that Jesus' brothers doubted Him and for James it was not until after Jesus rose again that James finally believed.

I walk in my mind with this woman on that frightful day that they crucified her Son. The agony that was probably running threw her. For I know that I wish to protect my children that is our maternal and paternal instinct, we want no harm to fall upon our children. I wonder if she sent up the same prayer Jesus did, Father if you are willing take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done. I wonder what she must have been thinking as they beat, spit, and heaped insult upon Him. I wonder if she was filled with the same compassion for these men, the same compassion her Son would later state on the cross, Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing. Or I wonder if she was thinking why? Why is He dying for this lot they are a brood of liars, cheaters, thieves, murders, hypocrites, and adulterers. Why God must He die for a brood such as these they are unworthy of the gift of Him. I wonder this because in my flesh I would have thought the same had it been my son hanging from that cross.

Mary did you know that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters? I wonder during this Christmas season, did she know.

Welcome To Teamjesus Community: Alli_Cat62

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:17:04 +0000

Hello alli_cat62,

Welcome to TeamJesus Community. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

alli_cat62 joined on the 12 December 2011 - 12:16 AM.

View alli_cat62's Profile

Attributes Of Jesus Applied To Santa Claus

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 23:58:13 +0000

First Commandment: I am the Lord thy God, thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Exodus 20: 2-3

The tradition of Santa Claus can be a touchy subject to some Christians. For some, perhaps many, this blog could make it an even touchier subject. I would like you to consider what is shared in this blog that provides the attributes ascribed to Santa Claus that are only true of Jesus Christ, the Savior whose birth Christians claim to honor and celebrate at Christmastime.

Among the gods at Christmas, Santa Claus is clearly the most highly revered in the United States. This beloved man-created god emerged from the story of what we believe to be a loving and generous man named Nicholas who lived in the fourth century. It is understood that Nicholas became the Bishop of Myra in the land now called Turkey. Legends grew and spread over Europe about this saint named Nicholas and his generosity. These legends culminated into a false god whom we know as Santa Claus. Today, Santa Claus reigns in homes, schools, workplaces, and shopping malls and in the hearts, minds and lives of millions of people during the Christmas season. Who is it that so many families await the arrival of on Christmas Eve? Santa! Who and what are in the minds of families, children and adults alike, as they wake up on Christmas morning? Santa and gifts, gifts, gifts!

Many parents actually teach their young children to believe in Santa Claus and that he is the Christmas time gift-bringer. What is it that parents and society teach about Santa? The attributes of the One True and Holy Triune God have been applied to this false god.

SANTA IS OMNISCIENT - He knows how children behave throughout the year. The familiar song says, he knows if we ve been good or bad. Also, he knows exactly what children want for Christmas even if the child does not have an opportunity to tell him personally.
SANTA IS OMNIPOTENT - No storm is too great to hinder Santa from performing his annual miracle of delivering gifts throughout the world. He also defies the laws of nature by flying and by coming down the narrowest (and hottest!) of chimneys! Nor should we forget his amazing ability to produce millions of gifts throughout the year. Is anything too hard for Santa? With Santa all things are possible!
SANTA IS OMNIPRESENT - To visit every home in the world in one evening requires nothing less than omnipresence! Every child in the world can wake up in the morning and say, Santa has been here! Santa was present in my home! Prior to Christmas Santa also appears at hundreds of street corners and shopping centers throughout the country at the same time!
SANTA IS FAITHFUL - You can always count on Santa! Santa never fails and he never breaks his word. When Santa makes a promise he keeps it! When he promises a child a gift, that child will never be disappointed. Children are fully persuaded that what Santa has promised he is able also to perform. The child that believes in Santa will not be put to shame! Santa is totally dependable and trustworthy!
SANTA IS ETERNAL - Santa with his white beard and weather-beaten face is the very essence of eternity. Year after year goes by and Santa grows no older. Generations have come and gone, but Santa is still here. His life is endless and Santa cannot die. To Santa belongs an unending life.
SANTA IS IMMUTABLE - Yesterday, today, forever Santa is the same! He never seems to change. He is always happy! He is always jolly. He is always kind to children. In a changing world you can always count on Santa being Santa!
SANTA IS LOVE - Santa loves all the boys and girls in the world. Santa is no respecter of persons. He loves them all--red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in his sight.
SANTA IS RIGHTEOUS - All that Santa does is right! He makes no mistakes. He does all things well. Every child s stocking contains exactly the right thing.
SANTA IS GOOD - Santa showers his blessings upon all. Every good and perfect gift comes from Santa. He is the supreme GIVER of Christmas. It is Santa who brings the best gift of all!
SANTA IS SOVEREIGN - On Christmas Eve Santa is in complete control of the situation. Circumstances do not phase him (such as storms, sizes of chimneys, red-hot fire places, etc.) He is the King of Christmas!
SANTA IS COMING - Santa is coming to town. You better be ready! You better watch out! You better be good! He s coming! Are you prepared when Santa comes to reward every boy or girl according to his work? Millions of boys and girls each year wait with eager expectancy for the glorious appearing of the great Santa god. What a blessed hope for countless numbers of children! His reward is with him! What a comforting hope the boys and girls have as they prepare for his coming! And during the night he may come at any time. Even so, come, Santa Claus!
SANTA IS WORSHIPED - Santa is worshiped and loved by thousands (millions) of children the world around. Children love him so much that all through the year they seek to please him in such a way that when they see him they will not be ashamed. O come let us adore HIM!

Satan works hard to deceive, distract and draw attention away from Jesus Christ and who Jesus is. Satan loves to engage in perversion.

Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them (false gods, graven images, idols), nor serve them for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. Exodus 20:5-6

In The Beginning The Word And The Word Made Flesh

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 23:23:15 +0000

Where I am going with the message of this blog is this: The virgin Mary was made pregnant through the action of the Holy Spirit. In a very real and literal sense, Mary was made pregnant with The Word spoken by God and recorded in the Old Testament. Hence, through the Holy Spirit's overshadowing of Mary, The Word was made flesh. Jesus must fulfill all of the prophecies spoken and recorded because He was, is and until the end be The Word.

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, says the Lord, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty." Revelation 1:8

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. John 1: 1-3

John 1 is informing us that The Word was in the beginning, The Word was with God and The Word in actuality was God. And, not one thing that was created was made without The Word.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Genesis 1:1-2

In Genesis 1, the Trinity of God is introduced to us by our Creator. God the Father- the creative mind (First Person), God The Word(Second Person), and the Spirit of God or Holy Spirit - the action or movement of God (Third Person). The three persons of The Trinity always act in unity and operate in total harmony with each other.

Genesis 1:3 Then God said, (God-1st- spoke The Word-2nd) Let there be light; and there was light. (The Spirit of God -3 rd Person - acted/moved bringing light into existence). - - - -Repeated for each of the six days of the Creation Week.

Genesis 1:24 Then God said, (God spoke The Word) Let the earth bring forth the living creature according to its kind: cattle and creeping thing and beast of the earth, each according to its kind; and it was so. (The Spirit of God acted bringing land animals into existence, each according to its kind).

God Spoke "The Word" Throughout The Old Testament
When man went into sinful rebellion against God, God began to speak The Word about a Messiah, a Savior. God spoke to and through the prophets The Word about a pure sacrificial lamb who would pay the price for man's sin, a redeemer who would reconcile man to God and offer the free gift of salvation to those who repent of their sin toward God.

Samples of Prophecy - - - Old Testament Reference - - - Jesus' Fulfillment New Testament
(About Coming and Birth of Messiah, the Savior)
The offspring of the woman (Eve) - - - Genesis 3:15 - - - Jesus Fulfills Galatians 4:4 NT
Descendant of Abraham through whom everyone on earth will be blessed - - - Genesis 12:3, 18:18 - - - Jesus Fulfills Acts 3:25-26 NT
Descendant of David - - - Psalm 132:11 and Jeremiah 23: 5,6 - - - Jesus Fulfills Luke 1:32,33
The Son of God - - - Psalm 2:7 OT - - - Jesus Fulfills Matthew 3:17; Mark 1:11; Luke 3:22 NT
Born of a virgin - - - Isaiah 7:14 - - - Jesus Fulfills Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 1: 26-35 NT
Born in Bethlehem - - - Micah 5:2 - - - Jesus Fulfills Matthew 2:1 and Luke 2: 4-7 NT
(About Mission, Life, Death and Resurrection)
Make the blind see, deaf hear, etc. - - - Isaiah 35:5-6 - - - Many places see Matthew 11:3-6 and John 11:47 NT
Enter temple with authority - - - Malachi 3:1 - - - Matthew 21:12 and Luke 19:45 NT
Will be rejected - - - Isaiah 53:3 - - - Matthew 27:20-25; Mark 15:8-14; Luke 23:18-23; Joh 19:14-15 NT
Enter Jerusalem riding a donkey - - - Zechariah 9:9 . . . Matthew 21:1-11 NT
Sold for 30 pieces of silver - - - Zechariah 11:12,13 - - - Matthew 26:15 with Matthew 27:3-10 NT
Crucifixion experience - - - Psalm 22 contains 11 prophecies - - - Matthew 27:34-50 and John 19: 17-30 NT
Beaten, mocked, spat upon - - - Isaiah 50:6 - - - Matthew 26:67 and 27:26-31 NT
Raised from the dead - resurrection - - - Psalm 16:10,11 - - - Matthew 28:5-9; Mark 16:6; Luke 24:4-7; John 20:11-16; Acts 1:3 and 2:32 NT
Part of the New and everlasting covenant - - - Isaiah 55:3-4; Jeremiah 31:31-34- - - Matthew 26:28; Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8:6-13 NT
Ascend to heaven (at the right hand of God) - - - Psalm 68:18 - - - Luke 24:51; Acts 1:9, 2:33-35, 3:20-21, 5:31,32; Romans 8:34; more NT
Stone builders rejected become head cornerstone - - - Psalm 118: 22,23; Isaiah 28:16 - - - Matthew 21:42,43; Acts 4:11; Ephesians 2: 20 NT
Will be our intercessor - - - Isaiah 59:16 - - - Hebrews 9:15 NT
Plus hundreds more . . .

The Word Is The Seed
At the appointed time, the Holy Spirit planted THE WORD into the womb of the virgin Mary and THE WORD was made flesh.

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

John 1:4-5 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

Genesis 1: 1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. 3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. 4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.

The End
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, says the Lord, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty. Revelation 1:8

The Word, Jesus the Christ, is both the beginning and the end. He must go on to fulfill God's plan of salvation and the prophecies concerning judgment and bringing an end to death and to sin and godlessness.

Revelation 19:11-16 KJV
And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

1 Corinthians 15: 21-28
For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.

Thank God - 175 -

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 01:20:07 +0000

I Thank God for...

Abraham, first patriarch of the Jewish nation, miraculously had a son, Isaac, in his old age and from his barren wife (See Genesis 18).

Even when God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac as a test, Abraham fully expected God to give Isaac back since He promised a nation was to come from him. Abraham's heart was proven and God promptly stopped the sacrifice attempt since he finds human sacrifice abominable.

All I can say, it's a good thing Abraham knew how to listen for God's voice. If he didn't, he probably wouldn't have heard God STOP him

And because Abraham was willing to give his only son, God turned and gave HIS only Son.

Welcome To Teamjesus Community: 4Yhwh

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 00:09:05 +0000

Hello 4yhwh,

Welcome to TeamJesus Community. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

4yhwh joined on the 09 December 2011 - 10:45 PM.

View 4yhwh's Profile

Thank God - 174 -

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:10:43 +0000

I Thank God for...

Remember ppl, do not show favoritism with your children. (At least not so OBVIOUSLY).

"Joseph was the eleventh of Jacob's twelve sons in the Hebrew Bible. Joseph was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, but rose to become the most powerful man in Egypt after Pharaoh. He then brought his entire family down to Egypt, where they were settled in the land of Goshen."

This was an amazing story of forgiveness like how Abraham's was a story of promise and trust.

I Thank God - 173 -

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 14:27:21 +0000

I Thank God for...

Exodus 14:21-31

Quote

21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night and made the sea dry land; and the waters were divided.22 And the Israelites went into the midst of the sea on dry ground, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.23 The Egyptians pursued and went in after them into the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.24 And in the morning watch the Lord through the pillar of fire and cloud looked down on the host of the Egyptians and discomfited [them],25 And bound (clogged, took off) their chariot wheels, making them drive heavily; and the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel, for the Lord fights for them against the Egyptians!26 Then the Lord said to Moses, Stretch out your hand over the sea, that the waters may come again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots and horsemen.27 So Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to its strength and normal flow when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled into it [being met by it]; and the Lord overthrew the Egyptians and shook them off into the midst of the sea.28 The waters returned and covered the chariots, the horsemen, and all the host of Pharaoh that pursued them; not even one of them remained.29 But the Israelites walked on dry ground in the midst of the sea, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.30 Thus the Lord saved Israel that day from the hand of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the seashore.31 And Israel saw that great work which the Lord did against the Egyptians, and the people [reverently] feared the Lord and trusted in (relied on, remained steadfast to) the Lord and to His servant Moses.

I Thank God For...

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 19:46:51 +0000

Romans 2:14-16

"(Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law, since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them.) This will take place on the day when God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares."

Bible says that the laws of God are written on the heart which is why we have consciences. But the conscience will dull overtime if the person violates it enough. We start making excuses for ourselves.

I think God had the Law written down for a reason. It's hard to make excuses when you see right in front of your face in writing. Just like how it's hard to argue with the cop when he has you clocked and the speed limit sign is right there.

Quote

The 10 commandments come to us from Exodus 20:1-17. Here is the verse:[indent]

And God spoke all these words, saying: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

You shall have no other gods before me.
You shall not make for yourself any carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your manservant, nor your maidservant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.
Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.
You shall not murder.
You shall not commit adultery.
You shall not steal.
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.”

Thank God - 171 -

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 18:10:00 +0000

I Thank God for...

"Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you." (1Cor.11:24)

The bread used for Communion represents His body. It's like a picture of our physical Salvation.
His body was broken for us in a number of ways.--The crown of thorns, the beatings, the stripes, the injuries He suffered, the pain He suffered. He didn't have to suffer all that for our sins, He only had to shed His blood and die for our sins. But His body suffered so that through this, He could also atone for our sicknesses: "By His stripes we are healed!" (Isa.53:5) To save our bodies, it took His body.
The best medicine in the World is the body of Jesus Christ which was broken for our healing! When you partake of the bread, it shows you have faith that His body was broken for your health, so claim His healing by faith when you partake. If we eat of it by faith, we are healed by faith. It's part of His atonement for Salvation for the whole man--body, soul and spirit.
Thank You, Lord, for this bread representing Thy body broken for us and our physical health. As Your body was broken for our healing, so let us have faith to partake of it accordingly, in Jesus' name, amen!

Welcome To Teamjesus Community: Limitless

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 02:11:55 +0000

Hello limitless,

Welcome to TeamJesus Community. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

limitless joined on the 07 December 2011 - 02:01 AM.

View limitless's Profile

Prayer For Patricia

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 01:27:46 +0000

My friend Cyndi her mother has gone to the hospital today with pain in her side.

Her name is Patricia they admitted her in the hospital and were doing some tests they think she may have had her apendix burst on her.

Thank you for your prayers for this family they have had a lot of stuff going on things with Cyndi's health and financial issues and also Cyndi's brother Thomas has had heart problems and had some surgery recently as well. He has mental issues he's Autistic and so he does live alone now but Patricia has to go deal with him a lot he will call her all the time.

Thank God 170 - Till He Appeared...

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:47:13 +0000

I Thank God for...

O Holy night
The stars are brightly shining
It is the night
Of our dear Savior’s birth

Long lay the world
In sin and error pining
‘Till He appeared
And the soul felt it’s worth

A thrill of Hope
The weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks
A new and glorious morn’

Fall on your knees!
Oh, hear the Angel voices!
O night Divine

O night
When Christ was born
O night Divine!
O night
O night Divine

Are The Apostle Paul's Epistles The Word Of God?

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:41:13 +0000

Many of us who look to the Apostle Paul's epistles for guidance in this administration are accused of neglecting what Jesus said or what is recorded in the Old Testament. I have always found this accusation both curious as well as contradictory seeing how it comes from folks who claim to believe in the integrity of the Word of God.

I happen to believe that God watches over His Word and the things which are in the Bible are what God wanted to be in there. If God did not want the Pauline Epistles in His Word, He certainly could have made sure they went to the same place numerous other epistles written by Paul's contemporaries ended up which is NOT in the Bible.

I also believe that if Almighty God wanted the Old Testament to include all the other books that people claim should be viewed in the same light as what is in the Bible they would be in the Bible. I understand that people got together and decided what should be in the Holy Scriptures many centuries ago. But, I believe these people were led by the Holy Spirit to put into the Scriptures what God wanted.

The Word of God is NOT the King James Version or any other translation of ancient texts. The Word of God is what He spoke and his faithful men wrote down as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. The Word of God is the sum and whole of all God has said that pertains to every person living at any time in history. Certainly what God speaks to an individual is also the Word of God, but should not be confused with THE Word of God.

Christianity is so divided on this subject there is no possibility of reconciliation. There are groups which believe there is nothing good in the Old Testament just as there are many who believe there is nothing good in the Book of Revelation. There are groups who advocate ONLY reading the four Gospels and there are even some who go so far as saying The Word of God is only found in the red letters of what Jesus actually said.

Perhaps with the exception of Jude, there is no New Testament writer more scorned, ridiculed or neglected as the Apostle Paul. Critics seek to find contradictions in his epistles and accuse him of unspeakable wickedness in his personal life. They cite Peter who said Paul s writings are difficult to understand as reason not to read them. These same people conveniently forget the tension between Peter and Paul based on the situation recorded in Galatians.

I see no reason not to pay close attention to what Paul wrote in light of my belief that THE Church began on the Day of Pentecost. Paul's epistles are rich with incredible information that only pertains to those of us "born again". Paul's epistles should not generate anger or fear but rather great expectation of the wonderful truth found in them.

Thank God - 169 -

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 18:31:24 +0000

I Thank God for...

Thank God - 168-2 " Zaccheus The Tax Collector "

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:11:28 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

Part 2 of 2

Luke 19:1-10

1 Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3 He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.

5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.

7 All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.”

8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”

9 Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Thank God - 168-1 " Zaccheus The Tax Collector "

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 15:07:35 +0000

I Thank God for....

Part 1 of 2!

Luke 19:1-10

1 Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3 He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.

5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.

7 All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.”

8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.”

9 Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Thank God - 167 -

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:25:49 +0000

I Thank God for...

Really sad, I think they were exiled about 3 times.

Many times Israel fell into idolatry, worshiping gods other than YHWH. So God had to withdraw his protection from them and allow them to fall captive to their enemies. He really didn't want to but he couldn't reward them for it.

Before you judge God for punishing them, one thing I you have to understand is to YHWH God, his relationship with his people is like marriage.

Isaiah 54:5:
"For your Maker is your husband— the LORD Almighty is his name— the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; he is called the God of all the earth."

Jeremiah 3:20:
"But like a woman unfaithful to her husband, so you have been unfaithful to me, O house of Israel," declares the LORD."

You worshiping something else equates cheating on him. You also lose his blessings, liberty and protection as he is the source of freedom and life. From a Biblical perspective, those deities were made by man; they did not create people and care nothing for them.

Hosea 4:12:
"They consult a wooden idol and are answered by a stick of wood. A spirit of prostitution leads them astray; they are unfaithful to their God."

Habakkuk 2:18-19:
"Of what value is an idol, since a man has carved it?
Or an image that teaches lies?
For he who makes it trusts in his own creation;
he makes idols that cannot speak.

19 Woe to him who says to wood, 'Come to life!'
Or to lifeless stone, 'Wake up!'
Can it give guidance?
It is covered with gold and silver;
there is no breath in it."

An idol doesn't have to be a statue. You can judge what is an idol by the effect it has on you. It can be your job, video game, or even a person (for me, it can be seeking solace in my own imagination). If that thing is your reason for living, it is sitting on the throne in your heart where you're Maker should be.

Not that you cannot love and enjoy things in this world but if something were to take it away and you want to die, like with people committing suicide after Hurricane Katrina, something is seriously wrong.

To YHWH God, idolatry is spiritual adultery/prostitution and it is played out for all to see in the drama of the Old Testament. When I further read the things God said to the people, I also sense a profound amount of pain in those words.

Yes, he can feel pain and can probably feel in much deeper than we can.

Genesis 6:5-7 (Right before the Great Flood)
The LORD saw how great man's wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time. The LORD was grieved that he had made man on the earth, and his heart was filled with pain. So the LORD said, "I will wipe mankind, whom I have created, from the face of the earth—men and animals, and creatures that move along the ground, and birds of the air—for I am grieved that I have made them."

If you've ever had your heart broken, you should be able to empathize to some degree.

But you know what? Right after God pronounced his punishment, he immediately talked about what he would do once it was over. He would bless and restore them and give them back what they lost. He ALWAYS included that in the same breath.

Welcome To Teamjesus Community: Capt496

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 07:14:25 +0000

Hello capt496,

Welcome to TeamJesus Community. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

capt496 joined on the 01 December 2011 - 07:13 AM.

View capt496's Profile

Love Is The Very Nature Of God For God Is Love

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:59:18 +0000

What is important in life? Is discussion of theology the only thing involved with living? Is relegating Almighty God to the position of being a "thing" instead of a Father really what He desires?

It appears that the more religious a person becomes, the colder and more distant their relationship with God is. Some of the most religious people who ever lived were the Pharisees, yet they were incapable of manifesting one drop of the love of God for they were ignorant of it.

When the Christian faith becomes nothing more than a thick book full of rules, regulations and commandments, it has succeeded in becoming no different than The Law. When the relationship between the Father and His children is severed, Christianity evolves into dead rituals and is flush with condemnation of those who do not do the same.

According to many people, I am a terrible person worthy of eternal damnation because I do not attend a physical church with four walls. According to many people, I am a lost soul because I believe in a loving God who is far more willing to forgive than to condemn His children.

According to many people, I should lock myself in a cell and waste away due to errors I made in the distant past. According to many people, there is no mercy or grace with God, only relentless judgment and hatred toward anything and anyone who is not perfect.

Of course there is accountability in our faith. Of course God abhors sin. Of course there is a time coming when the wrath of God will be poured out on those who reject Him and refuse to believe in Him. But, to imply that because of these things God throws His own children under the bus is ludicrous.

God is love. God is full of mercy. God is gracious. God is patient. God is forgiving. God is light. God is right. How can such a God spend His days crushing His people with the weight of the law? How can such a God turn the other way when His people seek His forgiveness or help? He cannot and He will not.

The will of God, according to Timothy is that all men be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. The will of God is NOT to punish everyone who sins. That is why Jesus came and gave His life for sin. God desires fellowship and a heartfelt relationship with His children, not some empty religion full of traditions and condemnation.

God is love can never be forgotten or discarded lest we fall into the trap of condemnation, judgment and a cold religion devoid of the true nature of God.

Love And Judgment Cannot Live Together

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:38:55 +0000

Back in King David's day when a messenger would be sent out, this messenger would give his message the same as he received it. From body language, to inflection of tone, I have heard it said that a prophet is to do the same when delivering the message of the Lord.

John 13:34
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

Jesus said, I command . When the Lord speaks to me about love and how it is commanded for us to love one another the word command when He speaks it is like thunder coming from His lips. That is the best that I can describe it. One of the prayers that I pray is for the Lord to give me the eyes to see His people the way that He does, with His love for them. I will tell you there is power in this prayer, He wants us to see each other this way. I have had some challenge me on this, What do you mean love everyone?? You are asking to much! Funny how some react to a prophet, I didn't say it I just deliver it. Please understand we are not called to love the sin, we are called to love the sinner.

The Lord says, Rebuke the spirit of judgment! It is not our job to cast judgment on anyone. Sin is sin. The only difference is that if you are a Christian you are covered by the cleansing blood of Jesus, He and only He has made you white as snow. It is nothing that we did, one does not deserve it anymore than another. We all fall short of Glory everyday, and daily we must ask for forgiveness. We must get past this spirit of judgment so that the Lord can fully use us for the harvest that is to come.

He is calling His saints can you hear Him? When He pulls me to my prayer room He whispers in my ear, Pray for my saints child.

So I pray, I pray that He gathers His saints together so that they may encourage each other for the days that lay ahead. I pray that He strengthens them and fills them with His Spirit. I pray that His words live upon their lips, His Spirit resides inside of them. So that anyone that comes into contact with them will see Jesus Christ inside. I pray that their lives are a pleasing aroma to Him that lives in heaven. I pray that He sets their feet on solid ground and that they all walk in His will and do His work for the days of their life. This is my prayer for His saints, if you are saved by the Blood of Jesus Christ then this pray is for you. Know that it is spoken for you, I pray that you can hear Him calling you for the day is drawing near.

God Bless to All!

Room For Game Designers

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 22:13:54 +0000

Hey just to let Y'all know there's a room for Game designers on UnitedChristianChat.net . It's called #Game_Designers.
Check out the rooms web site at http://www.game-designers-uccn.co.nr/

Thank God - 166 -

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 22:31:31 +0000

LUKE 7:11-17

11 And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.
12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.
13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.
14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.
16 And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.
17 And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.

Welcome To Teamjesus Community: Mike Petty

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 19:13:03 +0000

Hello Mike Petty,

Welcome to TeamJesus Community. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

Mike Petty joined on the 27 November 2011 - 07:13 PM.

View Mike Petty's Profile

Welcome To Teamjesus Community: Lori A. Petty

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 19:12:30 +0000

Hello Lori A. Petty,

Welcome to TeamJesus Community. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

Lori A. Petty joined on the 27 November 2011 - 07:12 PM.

View Lori A. Petty's Profile

Indirect Idolatry

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 22:50:42 +0000

Bear in mind that this is NOT an attack on sports fanatics (or any other fanatics for that matter). But the article does make for an interesting read and does make a pretty good point that is really not all-too-far from the truth in regards to how fandom is generally treated. Although the article is addressing fandom in sports teams, it can very well also be applied to all kinds of fandom elsewhere--the concept is relatively the same in the fanbase of anything out there you can think of. People certainly take fandom pretty far...too far if you ask me. And it can be a pretty scary thing when it does go too far. (Want proof? It's all over the internet.)

The point is that fandom can very well easily turn into idolatry, which is a very dangerous thing, especially in the life of a Christian. It's something taken very lightly even for those who claim to be followers of Jesus. A lot of things in the media today are elevated to such a god-like status even while some fans may not even know that they are also guilty of treating it that way. And to those who (probably) don't realize that they do, I have invented a term for it:

"Indirect idolatry".

Indirect idolatry is when something is elevated with such significantly greater and absolute enthusiasm even though it is not directly labeled as a god and even though they don't claim to be worshiping it. The person treating their fandom like a greater high doesn't say they are worshiping what they are a fan of, but they have a clear obsession that affects their day-to-day lives and a lot of what they do on a regular basis. Often this treatment of fandom gives the Christian fan a sense of high that seems apparently more enthusiastic than the way they feel about God/Jesus or the way they treat God/Jesus in their daily lives. This treatment of fandom and the time spent adoring it may also become a distraction from the Christian fan's worship of God. It can even be evident in day-to-day conversation or topics. It really is a big deal.

Here are several, actual definitions of the word "idol":

An image or representation of a god used as an object of worship.
A person or thing that is greatly admired, loved, or revered.
Someone who is adored blindly and excessively.
A graven image or representation of anything that is revered, or believed to convey spiritual power.
A cultural icon, or especially popular person.
Any objects of worship that distract from the center of proper worship ─ Christ and God.
A cute, young, manufactured starlet. Both live performers and anime characters can be idols.
A pop singer, actor or a rising star.
Anything that is worshiped instead of the true God.

...So, can you become a fan of something without being an idolater?

Well, there is a difference between liking something and being totally obsessed over it. But each and every individual should decide where to draw the line, because people can become easily blind to how far their enthusiasm for something goes. Nowadays it is a very difficult thing to draw the line between an innocent supporter and an idolater.

If you feel that you lack an identification without your fandom,
or that you feel that your fandom gives you a sense of identity,
or that you cannot live without the thing that you are a big fan of,
or that the thing that you are a fan of is THE GREATEST THING TO EVER EXIST ON THE PLANET,
or that you express your fandom more loudly than your love for God,
or that your fandom is far more evident than your Christianity,
or that you become very angry when somebody opposes/mocks/disagrees with your fandom,
or that you find yourself in arguments regarding the fandom that you feel so passionate about,
or that you feel so passionate about your fandom that you really have to defend it,
or that you spend much more time celebrating it and using your God-given talents for it than you do for the glory of God,
or that you're often forgetting about God when you embrace your fandom,
or that you give much more priority to your fandom than you do worshiping/honoring God...
...then this may be a considerable stop-and-think point for you.

We are given many things to enjoy, which is good. But we can take anything that we are given and abuse that right to pleasure. Idols aren't limited to gold statues of false gods. Pretty much anything that is taken too far in its treatment can turn into an idol.

Example?

Food is good. We can enjoy what we eat, and it is good to enjoy your meal. God gave us food not just for nourishment but also to enjoy. If we couldn't enjoy our food, then it wouldn't taste good in the first place. Food is a gift. But an unhealthy love for food becomes gluttony. Gluttony is treating food as an idol.

Money is also good. God never said that having money is a bad thing. Money itself is not evil. But it's the love of money that is a root of all kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10). A love of money and materialism becomes greed. When people place too much trust and care in money and material things, that is when money and material things become idols.

Animals are a gift to us from God. The beauty of nature is also a gift to us from God. The ability to meet other people is even a gift from God. But there is a difference between having love/compassion for living things and elevating those things to a god-like status. There is a big difference between enjoying/supporting the talents of others and elevating them because of the thing(s) that they are known for (especially when it comes to those who are famous).

Now consider a lot of what the media and even the gaming industry offers. A lot of Christians who are fans of something express their fandom of those things so loudly that it is much more evident than their proclaimed Christianity. In fact, sometimes the fandom is expressed so loudly that it's hard to see what else there is about a person at all. (But this can also apply to anyone; even a non-Christian can appear to "lack a personality" if all there is to them are their fandoms). Even a proclaimed Christian's deviantART page can be cluttered with so much of his/her fandom that anyone could easily miss that the fan believes in God if they did not read through their page carefully enough. Who would guess, really, if the page looks so identical to anyone else's? It's as if it made no difference what your faith is. My point is that sometimes a person's fandom speaks louder than faith. Sometimes fandom is more evident than faith. Sometimes fandom just gets that much more attention.

Loving something that isn't God too much can become idolatry if the treatment of the center of attention/object of affection exceeds the attention/affection directed toward God. Even hatred can become an idol if it's given enough attention. (Ever read the story, Moby Dick? Captain Ahab's obsessive desire for revenge on the white whale was his indirect idol--in other words, wrath.)

Live in the world but not of the world.

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:2)

"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." (Matthew 6:24)

"Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful." (Mark 4:18-19)

"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." (1 Timothy 6:10)

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)

"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world--the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does--comes not from the Father but from the world." (1 John 2:15-16)

"What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26)

Have I ever been guilty of "indirect idolatry"? Of course I have. Anyone who holds/has held firmly onto some form of security or comfort that isn't God/Jesus as their way of life has practiced idolatry in some form or another. Anyone who's clung to an unhealthy addiction to something has practiced idolatry in some form or another. I've placed my trust in all kinds of things before I acknowledged Jesus as the one way, truth, and life. That included: extreme dependency on other people, extreme attachment to certain friends in my life, certain famous people, obsessive role-playing, anime, video games, certain characters in anime/video games, romantic daydreaming, and especially the concept of trying to fit in. I had made many idols out of things before I gave myself up to God. I am not excluded; I am just as capable a victim as anyone else. That's why it is crucial to maintain a relationship with God and to feed our minds spiritual food. (Remember, even if the thing itself isn't necessarily bad, it's the way they are used/treated that can create something wrong.)

Guess what? Those other things that you obsess over are not what define who you are. If those other things did not exist, what is left? God defines who you are. God created you. Not those other things. You can be influenced by those other things, but they did not create you. They can never be the source of true everlasting joy that only Jesus can bring.

Know that it is okay to enjoy and be entertained by certain things. But also know that they are just temporary things and that too much dependency over temporary things will lead to false hope.

Obsession of any kind is dangerous and is capable of distancing a follower from his/her relationship with God. Be careful if you're the type to claim to be a "hardcore" fan or even an "otaku" of something; it may not be too far from extremism. Bear in mind what is really important in life, and be sure not to let things like fandom receive that glory that should be given to God. Enjoy the gifts that you are given, but don't treat them so highly. Thank God for the pleasures that you have and remember first and foremost your Creator who has given you the ability to enjoy. And remember that NOTHING/NO ONE ELSE can ever take the place of God/Jesus. For true joy and peace come from Him.

God bless!

Prayer For Angie

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 20:06:32 +0000

Hi Everyone,

I have someone who is sort of a friend but we are not really close she is more friends with my friend Cyndi and so I just know her and talk to her some when she has come over to my friend Cyndi's house and I saw her.

Here is a scenario of the situation,
Angie had an abusive husband and she got out away from him and had a nice apartment and everything. She is mentally challenged so there are some things which are difficult for her but she can take care of herself. Well her mother and father are disabled too and they needed her help so she gave up her apartment and all to move back in with them to help. She has the real sweet attitude and with that in mind think how vulnerable she could be and actually this is what has happened with her moving back in with her parents. Her mother is able to get around she does have some physical ailments but she isn't helpless. Well she has played on Angie's vulnerability and her good heart and got her to give up her life and move in with her. Well Angie has 2 kids and her ex-husband got custody by playing on the fact of Angie's disability factor and got it declared her an unfit mother because of her mental state saying she could not care for the children. Angie was fighting this ruleing and with the age of the one daughter she was finally able to get her back because she stated she wanted to move back with her mom etc. but the younger daughter could not go and the mom and dad live states away from each other so visitation was scheduled for summer. At the end of summer the dad was supposed to get the younger daughter back and he was supposed to foot the bill for this it stated so in the paperwork the mom had to foot the bill to go get her and the dad was to do that to have her returned. Angie's lawyer called and got him recorded refusing to pay for plane tickets or come get her and he said no he would not. This was a breaking of contract so Angie was awarded temp. custody and able to enroll Ginger in school and she was still 2 weeks late starting because of all the run around.

Ok now about to come to the actual prayer request part is that the grandmother has been being verbally abusive to the kids , the older girl Maggie had been left alone with the grandparents for her to watch over them while mom had gone to get groceries or just a short trip out to run an errand. Maggie had tried to tell her mom how her grandmother treated her with abusive language and just hateful attitude etc. also hitting her as well the grandmother would lie and say Maggie was the one being abusive to her etc. and well yesterday they were doing christmas decorations and the grandma got mad because they were not going to put out all the decorations but they had no where else to use them. She was cussing Maggie and calling her bad names and then threw something at her and hit her. Maggie retaliated and picked up a belt and her mother got in between her and her grandma and she got hit not the grandma .... then it escalated more and Maggie grabbed the ball bat and again the mom got hit in the back of her head and the grandmother called police. As the police was there and getting ready to take Maggie to juvinile the other daughter was picking things up out of the floor and picked up scissors and the grandma still being hateful said what are you going to do with those now are you planning to cut me or stab me with them? Ginger said NO I am just trying to clean up this mess but I should stab you cuz I'm mad your making my sister go to jail . Well the police officer heard her comment and so he arrested her and took her and maggie both in to juvinile. They have this poor little girl 10 yr old had her in shackles in court today hands and feet and her crying she's never been in trouble and they have her charged with like criminal endangerment attempt to commit manslaughter or something like that I am not sure the exact way it was stated but this little girl is so sweet and calm natured personality if others are bothering her she never fights back she always was running to adult crying saying that they are bothering her.

This poor child and the other child both really should not be locked up in juvinile at this time because the grandmother was the one who started the whole thing and who was abusive to the children. They are missing the first thanksgiving they would have been together for a few years now and its really sad. please keep them all in prayer. Angie the mother of the 2 kids she really tries she herself has problems and he tries to please everyone and in doing so her own mother takes advantage of that to mistreat her. If she sees her trying to rest or knows she is going to do something to have a little enjoyment like visiting with friend she will constantly call and text her not giving her any peace at all. She told Angie today and got her all upset that her kids did need to go be in juvinile and taken away to live with someone else cuz that Angie was not a good mother to her children
The thing also is the grandmother is able bodied enough to where she can get up fix a simple meal manage to take care of her own toileting etc. she might need someone there with her while she bathes to make sure she don't fall but she pretty much can do for herself. But she has been burdoning her daughter down with constantly calling her to do everything for her even to the point of the remote being laying just out of reach instead of getting up and reaching over to get it she would call the daughter who was busy with her dad who is bedridden most of the time he does get up in wheelchair some of the time and sit ..she was busy with him and she called her to come get the remote and hand it to her then started cussing her saying couldn't you change the channel you sorry good for nothing " B" so this is the way Angie has had to live but she didn't want her parents in nursing home... Now she will have no choice most likely she is going to have to chose her mother staying in the home and her losing her kids to state care / or her ex husband getting them ...... or her mother having to go into nursing home.. It is a sad situation that the children now ... have been in care one night already and they have to stay at least until next Wednesday when the judge will rule what will take place He has to get paperwork and lawyer reports etc. all evidence which he did not have available he has to get it all before him so he can see what will actually happen

One Thing Worth Being Concerned About

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 18:51:05 +0000

Fewer people are more controversial in the bible than Mary Magdalene. Why is she so important? She is the person who comes the farthest. At one point in her life, she was filled with seven demons. She is thought to have been the woman whom Jesus saves from stoning. But she is also known for washing his feet with her tears, covering them with kisses, and drying them with her hair. She is Lazarus' sister, and the first person to see the Risen Christ. From the dregs of society to great honor. But it's not for any other reason than she understood what Christ and God are about. She humbled herself and immersed herself in truth. She never looked back at her old life and was full of shame, but went forward. All she wanted to sit at the feet of her Lord and teacher. As Christ said to Martha, Mary's sister, "There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.

Luke 8:2
along with some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. Among them were Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons;

John 8-A Woman Caught in Adultery
4 Teacher, they (the Pharisees and Sadducees) said to Jesus, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say? 6 They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. 7 They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone! 8 Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.
9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. 10 Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, Where are your accusers? Didn t even one of them condemn you? 11 No, Lord, she said. And Jesus said, Neither do I. Go and sin no more.

Luke 7 Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman
Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, Look at this woman kneeling here. When I entered your home, you didn t offer me water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You didn t greet me with a kiss, but from the time I first came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she has anointed my feet with rare perfume.
47 I tell you, her sins and they are many have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love. 48 Then Jesus said to the woman, Your sins are forgiven. 49 The men at the table said among themselves, Who is this man, that he goes around forgiving sins? 50 And Jesus said to the woman, Your faith has saved you; go in peace.

Luke 10-Jesus Visits Martha and Mary
38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord s feet, listening to what he taught. 40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, Lord, doesn t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.
41 But the Lord said to her, My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.

John 20-Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
11 Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. 12 She saw two white-robed angels, one sitting at the head and the other at the foot of the place where the body of Jesus had been lying. 13 Dear woman, why are you crying? the angels asked her.
Because they have taken away my Lord, she replied, and I don t know where they have put him.
14 She turned to leave and saw someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she didn t recognize him. 15 Dear woman, why are you crying? Jesus asked her. Who are you looking for?
She thought he was the gardener. Sir, she said, if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.
16 Mary! Jesus said.
She turned to him and cried out, Rabboni! (which is Hebrew for Teacher ).
17 Don t cling to me, Jesus said, for I haven t yet ascended to the Father. But go find my brothers and tell them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.
18 Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, I have seen the Lord! Then she gave them his message.

A Prayer For Revival And Mercy

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 18:35:50 +0000

Psalm 85:1-7
"You showed favor to your land,
O Lord;
You restored the fortunes of Jacob.
You forgave the iniquity of your
People
And covered all their sins,
You set aside all your wrath
And turned from your fierce
Anger.
Restore us again, O God our
Savior,
And put away your displeasure
Toward us.
Will you be angry with us forever?
Will you prolong your anger
Through all generations?
Will you not revive us again,
That your people may rejoice in
You?
Show us your unfailing love,
O Lord,
And grant us your salvation."

This is the prayer that the Lord has lead me to, Revival and Mercy. Daily He leads me to my prayer room where I drop prostrate before Him, there I lift up a prayer for this land that we live. I pray for the Lord to awaken those living in this land from their slumber. I pray for the Lord to reveal Himself to His servants, please show them Your will for their lives. I pray for those still living in darkness, I pray that they would turn from their wicked ways into the light. I pray that the Lord give me the eyes to see all with the Love that He has for Him.

He came to me and said, Tell my people to Love! For I have commanded it. Love even those who are unlovable. Love even those who persecute you. Love even those who stir up evil. Love. Lift them all to me in prayer and I will bless you.

I pray to the Lord for a Revelation for He put it upon my heart. He came to me in my prayer room whispering, Living Water . Into His Scriptures I go in search of Him. John 7:37-38 Jesus said, If anyone is thirst, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scriptures has said, streams of living water will from within him. Then He whispers in my ear, Drink Me in child, let Me fill you. Breath Me in child, let my words live upon your lips. I want to course threw your veins, I wish for nothing more than to reside inside of you.

He has called each and everyone of us to become a Intercessor for this generation. Psalm 103:8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.

Let us go into our prayer closet and pray.

Amen.

Thank God - 165 -

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:33:01 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

Calling All Christians, True Callings!

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 15:30:22 +0000

Ever wonder what your true calling of God is? First we need to pray about it, then we need to follow what instructions we received when we prayed about our true calling as God's children!

First we need to make sure we are lined up with the Lord, and to do this, we must first repent of our sins. sure you are saved, and been forgiven. But in order to maintain our walk in God's light, we must repent for our sins, anything we may do, think, or say could enable a foot hold for the enemy, so we must ask for forgiveness each and everyday, before we get out of bed, we should do this and every night before we got to sleep.

After we repent, we need to pray and spend time with God and meditate on what we are given, spiritual gifts, prophecy, God's word, and the fellowship with Jesus! Through this meditation we will be given our true calling.

True callings that God has given us will vary from person to person. You may have similar one to someone else, but each calling is different, this is because each and everyone of us was created differently, we may be similar, but that's the point, we are all different, created to be unique, but the mind set of each Christian is to be the same goal: to bring the gospel around the world, so that all may have the opportunity to know Jesus, and be as Jesus is.

True callings: perhaps you were called to be a preacher, a teacher, (both similar but very different callings) perhaps you were called to be a counselor, or maybe a missionary, could be you were called to be a child care attendant in Sunday school. Maybe you were called to be a musician, or a play-write, or perhaps you were called to be a prayer warrior, and many many other things. Yes all these are similar, with the same goal, to bring glory and honor to the Father God almighty, but at the same time they are different. Yes they are also things that maybe your careers, but they are still true callings of God.

How do you know you are doing your true calling? That is the easiest part, when you are doing your true calling, you will have such peace, enjoying what you do, and you will feel God with you when you are doing this. God will be with you as do what you are called to do, He will bless you along the way as well. You will feel the anointing of God over your calling, enabling you to do it beyond your best capabilities! Now that's a TRUE calling! Some callings are for only a season, some are for life. God will let you know,

Beware of using your true calling as a means of greed! If you take the anointing and use it to make money, gain popularity, or boast about your career, or calling, God will remove the anointing, and without it, you will be just like every other average person who does the job you are doing. You were chosen for a reason so do not abuse the calling, and God will continue to bless you in your calling!

After we finish doing for that day what God called you to do, we must always, ALWAYS (I can't stress it enough) ALWAYS stop and give thanks for the time we spent in God's anointing, presence, and His light. Giving the honor, glory and power to Him whom enabled you to do as you were called. Giving thanks is a way to show God you respect and love Him. Giving honor and glory also shows you are following the instruction Jesus taught and is teaching each and everyday as we walk in the fruit of the spirit! God loves us and will forgive you, but you must show that you truely Him back. (It's so easy to forget and slip away from the path of righteousness and back into our old selves if we are not constantly watching where we step.)

In short, God will anoint you when you find your true calling. It's always been there waiting for you. and it may not be something that seems to conform to the truest meaning of our human lives, it maybe something God made just for you, because you are a good example, but it will bring forth the blessings God has for each of us. Let God take your hand and lead you to your anointing!

God bless you all,
Jeff

Ps, if you know your true calling, I would love to hear them, if you are willing to share, but please pray about it first, sometimes God would prefer some callings to be left unsaid for a time, so He may bring forth further anointing. God bless

Welcome To Teamjesus Community: Virtualfriend

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 23:35:13 +0000

Hello VirtualFriend,

Welcome to TeamJesus Community. Please feel free to browse around and get to know others. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

VirtualFriend joined on the 14 November 2011 - 11:33 PM.

View VirtualFriend's Profile

Thank God - 164 -

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 20:42:28 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

Image Hosting Is Now Here!

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:14:18 +0000

Hi everyone!!

You may or may not have noticed some little changes here and there, as I try to make this forums for you nice and clean and easy and I pray your enjoying the changes

With that in mind, we now have a Image hosting service installed right here for you all to use, add free and totally free to you all! Simply click the iHost up the top there and upload your images, it will give you the info on how to use it on forums or other places....

Check it out and GOD BLESS!

Yours in HIS Service

Jeff

Thank God - 163 -

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 02:57:03 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

Pray 4 Cyndi

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 06:32:55 +0000

my friend cyndi needs prayer for a lot of health issues , when she went for her doctor appt. yesterday she was given results of mamogram and it was not good they said she has breast cancer in right breast... so they will be determining what to do for treatments. also they have found a tumor in her stomach... she is a survivor of colen cancer she's had surgery and had intestine and some of her stomach back yrs ago.. so now she will have to go to specialist to find out what to do with this issue... and on top of all this housing is trying to evict her from her home this eviction stuff has been an ongoing situation since august...

please also just keep me in prayer with my health.. and for my school thanks.
God bless you everyone I love u all.

Thank God - 162 -

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:34:28 +0000

I Thank HIM For...

Chris Tomlin – How Great Is Our God: The Essential Collection

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:06:38 +0000

Artist: Chris Tomlin
Album: How Great Is Our God: The Essential Collection
Release Date: November 15th, 2011
Style: Praise & Worship
Label: sixstepsrecords / Sparrow / EMi CMG
Location: England, UK

About:

As one of the most-sung artists in the church, Chris Tomlin writes music that connects people to the heart of Jesus and leads them to a greater worship of him. After six studio albums and numerous appearances on Passion live worship albums, Chris releases his first-ever greatest hits collection on Nov. 15th with How Great Is Our God: The Essential Collection. Of the 14 songs on the album, 3 are all-new recordings of classic Tomlin worship songs. Included is a new recording of the #1 song “How Great Is Our God”, which features guest appearances from renowned international worship leaders, singing parts of the song in their native language.

Track Listing:

01. How Great Is Our God (World Edition)
02. Our God
03. Forever
04. The Wonderful Cross (With Matt Redman)
05. Famous One
06. We Fall Down
07. Indescribable
08. Holy Is The Lord
09. Enough
10. Made To Worship
11. Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)
12. Jesus Messiah
13. God Of This City (Live From Passion)
14. I Will Rise
15. How Great Is Our God

Listen to “How Great Is Our God” Single:

How Big Is God?

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 23:46:13 +0000

There is no physical space large enough to contain God, in all His fullness and glory. In our simple, logical minds, this seems simple, yet profound enough. But, we just can not comprehend how broad this statement really is. God is larger than time and space itself, and we are confined to ours, for now.

First, all we could observe was with the naked eye. Then we discovered the telescope. At the present, we have discovered that placing the "Hubble" telescope out into the sky, that we can observe things and places we had never seen before, in such detail. And yet, there is still that "third heaven", out there.

We can place a satellite up in space, and observe and gather information to be used to guide 'smart bombs', and observe the movements and actions of those we consider an enemy. And yet, we can only see the 'effects' of 'spiritual wickedness in high places', but who could truly observe with electronics or any physical senses?

We have now found that we each have special DNA, that makes us each unique and different, yet, we can not truly understand or observe what would cause one to love God, and another to hate Him.

We know that in the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth. I believe that God has told us all that we need to know to understand about that, and I will accept as He revealed to us, without the questions, or theories, or what if's. Yet, all that is contained in the heaven, I simply marvel at, and, I know that God is to be even MORE marveled. Heb. 4:14, Eph. 4:9,10.

God is eternal. No beginning. No end. What device or intellect does mankind have that could measure that? When were the angels created? Precisely when, did they rebel? If God has not revealed this to us in scripture, then how is anybody gonna know, just like everything else, regarding?

Hebrews tells us, that God has spoken to us in 'these last days', by His Son, Heb. Chapter One. But, are we truly content with this? Or, are many searching for more? I read quite often here, about "putting God in a box". Well, I can truthfully say this, regarding that. He took on flesh. He endured a cross. He spilled real blood for sin, as a propitiation for them. That is a box, so to speak, that He willingly got into, for His creation, He was not put there against His will.

This is what the True God did. This is how much God loved His creation. What other god has such love for creation? Other gods require a worthiness, of will and submission. The True God, rather, provides them, through HIS works, not ours. With other gods, love is given as it is earned. With the True God, love is given before it is earned. Rather, we love Him, because HE first loved us. Rom. 5:8, 1st John 4:10. Such love is what compels us. 2nd Cor. 5:14,15.

God was revealed in JESUS CHRIST. He is the prophet Moses spoke of to come. He is the Messiah that was hidden from His own, so that the Gentiles could be grafted in. Be not high-minded and boastful, but rather fear. Those who saw Jesus Christ also saw the Father. As His apostle John wrote, "He was in the world, the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not." John 1:10. God dwelt in human flesh, and yet no space can contain Him, He is bigger and higher than all.

This is considered foolishness, to many. Yet God has revealed Himself to us in this way. I truly hope this is a real blessing to someone. Searching for God? Then, find Him, in Jesus Christ. Col. 1:12-20.

The World May Scoff But God Smiles

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 23:44:51 +0000

In the Old Testament, the sign of extreme repentance and remorse was to wear sackcloth and be covered with ashes. It is my understanding that sackcloth was the hairy hide of goat and was not pleasant to the touch. Ashes of course are dirty and unpleasant to smell and be around. "Sackcloth and ashes" is therefore indicating both repentance as well as atonement for a sin. At any rate, I am glad we are not instructed to wear a burlap bag filled with ashes every time we sin!

To some degree God looked at the willingness of people to do something very uncomfortable as a sign of remorse for a sin committed. But, His forgiveness was not granted due to the outward expression of regret but rather the inner reality of brokenness.

In the New Testament, the term "Godly sorrow" is roughly the equivalent of sackcloth and ashes in the Old Testament. Godly sorrow is the heartfelt express of a contrite heart which is to be deeply sorry for and ashamed of having done something wrong or bad. This remorseful and penitent heart allows us to repent and accept God s forgiveness.

When a person's conscience becomes seared with a hot iron, they lose the ability or willingness to manifest any form of remorse for their behavior. It is at this point that a person hardens their heart and refuses to yield to the righteousness of God. In the Old Testament the term "stiff-necked" was used to describe both individuals and groups who rebelled against the Word of God and refused to be subject to what it says.

Without question, the lowest point a person can reach in their lives is that of becoming unable to admit a mistake or accept responsibility for their decisions and actions. When a person becomes, in their own mind, too powerful or good to fail; they are a failure. When a person reaches the point they defend wrong as right and right as wrong; they are guilty of deception and hypocrisy.

We live in one of the most corrupt and putrid times in history. Perhaps only during the time of Noah has evil prevailed like it does now. The world is full of powerful and arrogant people who have no conscience and thus no ability to ever accept being wrong. From government to religion, entertainment and academia; there is a prevailing attitude of arrogant self-righteousness and "in your face" blatant sin. There is no remorse even when people are arrested or their deeds or shown to be evil and/or hurtful.

It takes a big person to admit they are wrong. It takes an even bigger person to feel remorse for that wrong. It takes a giant person to lie on the ground wearing only sackcloth and covered with ashes. The world scoffs at those who remain humble before God and live with a brokenness found in knowing outside of Christ we are horrible people.

The world may scoff but God smiles.

Thank God - 161 -

Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:44:18 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

Thank God - 160 -

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 21:47:29 +0000

I Thank HIM For...

Jesus Christ; The Red Thread Of The Bible

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 02:43:20 +0000

For your spiritual edification and blessing, here, in its entirety, is one of the most remarkable things ever written. Please not only read this, but ponder its meaning and reflect upon how Jesus Christ is indeed the thread which binds the Word of God together.

THE RED THREAD

Who is the Red Thread?

Jesus Christ is the Red Thread of the Bible - the thread that binds the Word of God together...

You find him everywhere in the Bible, the Word of God!

In Genesis, he is the promised seed of the woman. In Exodus, he is the Passover Lamb.
In Leviticus, he is the high priest.
In Numbers he is the star to rise out of Jacob. In Deuteronomy, he is the two laws-love God and love your neighbor.
In Joshua, he is the captain of the lord of hosts.
In Judges, he is the covenant angel named Wonderful.
In Ruth, he is the kinsman redeemer. In Samuel, he is the root and offspring of David.
In Kings, he is the greater than the Temple.
In Chronicles, he is the king's son.
In Ezra and Nehemiah, he is the re-builder.
In Esther, he is the savior of God's people.
In Job, he is the daysman.
In Psalms, he is the song.
In Proverbs, he is the wisdom of God.
In Ecclesiastes, he is the one among a thousand.
In Song of Solomon, he is the bridegroom of the bride.

In Isaiah, he is Jacob's branch.
In Jeremiah, he is our righteousness.
In Lamentations, he is the unbelievers' judgment.
In Ezekiel, he is the true shepherd.
In Daniel, he is the stone that became the head of the corner.
In Hosea, he is the latter rain.
In Joel, he is God's dwelling in Zion.
In Amos, he is the raiser of David's tabernacle.
In Obadiah, he is the deliverer on Mount Zion.

In Jonah, he is our salvation.
In Micah, he is the lord of kings.
In Nahum, he is the stronghold in the time of trouble.
In Habakkuk, he is our joy and confidence.
In Zephaniah, he is our mighty Lord.
In Haggai, he is the desire of the nations.
In Zechariah, he is our servant-the branch.
In Malachi, he is the son of righteousness.
In Matthew, he is Jehovah's Messiah.
In Mark, he is Jehovah's servant.
In Luke, he is Jehovah's man.
In John, he is Jehovah's Son.

In Acts, he is the gift of holy spirit.
In Romans, he is the believer's justification.
In Corinthians, he is the believer's sanctification.
In Galatians, he is the believer's righteousness.
In Ephesians, he is the believer's heavenly standing.

In Philippians, he is the believer's self adequacy.
In Colossians, he is the believer's completeness.
In Thessalonians, he is the believer's soon glorification.
In Timothy, he is the faithful men.
In Titus, he is the fellow laborer.
In Philemon, he is the love of a believer.
In Hebrews, he is the high priest for sin.
In James, he is the royal law.
In Peter, he is the pastor.
In John, he is as we are.
In Jude, he is the beloved.
In Revelations, he is the king of kings and Lord of Lords.

He is the doom of the adversary as promised in Genesis 3:15 and accomplished in Revelation 20:10.

He is the "no night" of Revelation 22:5, of which Genesis 1:1 is night.

He is the light of Revelation 21:13, of which Genesis 1:16 and 17 is the sun and moon.

He is the "no more death, neither sorrow or crying" of Revelation 21:4, of which Genesis 3:16 and 17 is sorrow, suffering, and death.

He is the "no more curse" of Revelation 22:3, of which Genesis 3:17 is the curse.

He is the welcome home to paradise of Revelation 22:2, of which Genesis 3:22 to 24 is the banishment from paradise.

Who is Jesus Christ?

He is Abel's sacrifice, Abraham's ram, Isaac's well, Jacob's ladder.
He is Judah's scepter, Moses' rod, Joshua's rams' horn, Samuel's horn of oil, David's slingshot, Hezekiah's sundial, Elijah's mantle and Elisha's staff.

He is Job's prayer, Isaiah's fig tree, Ezekiel's wheel, Daniel's Jerusalem window, Johan's sea monster and Malachi's storehouse.
He is Peter's shadow, Paul's handkerchiefs and aprons.
He is the lily of the valley and the rose of Sharon in life's desserts.
He is the pearl of great price. He is the rock for pilgrims in a weary land.
He is the believer's justification. He is the believer's righteousness. He is the believer's sanctification. He is the believer's redemption.
He is the believer's knowledge.
He is the believer's wisdom. He is the believer's all-in-all in all. He is the believer's completely complete completeness.

He is the bright and morning star, and he's my Lord and my Savior.

This is why it is so important that we set aside time, whether tonight at communion or at church the next two Sundays or simply in our own quiet and personal time to be with the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Rock of all ages and represents everything God ever wanted for His creation. What could possibly be more important these next few days than taking the time to restore, refresh and renew your personal and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ?

My prayer is that the love we have for He who gave His life for us grows deeper and stronger and more meaningful day by day. I pray we come to understand and appreciate who Jesus Christ is and what He accomplished for us. I pray that we release the chains which hold us down and keep us from freely giving our hearts in love to our Master. I pray that each one of us can be drawn into our Savior's loving arms to be held, upheld and loved as we never have been in this life.

May the love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you as you grow in your relationship with Him.

Prayer For Deborah

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:21:08 +0000

My best friend in this circle, Cyndi, her sister Deborah has gone to the hospital today and she is having complications , bleeding with her pregnacy @ 6 mos. and she is in pre-mature labor so the baby is in distress and complications with the pre-maturity of its lungs not developed fully so they have said they were trying to stop the labor but couldn't so she is supposed to be delivering today please pray for her and the baby thanks.

Thank God - 159 -

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:23:02 +0000

I Thank God for...

A Prayer For Revival And Mercy

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 18:21:25 +0000

Thank God - 158 -

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 00:43:21 +0000

I Thank HIM For...

Thank God - 157 -

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 23:45:35 +0000

I Thank HIM for....

Thank God - 156 -

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 01:11:09 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

With Arms Wide Open

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 13:56:09 +0000

To illustrate the point further, Jesus told them this story: A man had two sons. The younger son told his father, I want my share of your estate now before you die. So his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons. A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted all his money in wild living. About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve. He persuaded a local farmer to hire him, and the man sent him into his fields to feed the pigs. The young man became so hungry that even the pods he was feeding the pigs looked good to him. But no one gave him anything. When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! I will go home to my father and say, Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant. So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. ~Luke 15:11-20 (New Living Translation)

I want to start this letter with addressing the reality of life. We all have done things that we are less proud of and or are even ashamed of. Speaking for myself, I know that to be truth. Sometimes it's as if we become trapped in a vortex of less desirable living. We continue to spiral toward rock bottom, often not even realizing it. Reason being, and truth be told, it's because most of the things we do that are less desirable are fun to us. We enjoy it, without realizing that we are actually playing with fire. Sooner or later we hit a familiar place to us all appropriately named rock bottom.

There's a saying that goes, "It's not always about how you fell but how you're going to get up." I say that to say this; sometimes when we hit rock bottom we struggle with deciding what to do next and where we are to go from there. Now the correct answer is and always will be for us to turn to God when we hit rock bottom. I mean, it's rock bottom, where else could we truly turn that would benefit us? However, I know as good as anyone, that's not always the easiest thing to do.

The problem is when we hit rock bottom, we drowned ourselves in our own thoughts of all we did wrong to end up at rock bottom. We beat ourselves up to the point to where we believe that a relationship with God isn't an option for us. We begin to believe that God doesn't want anything to do with us. When that couldn't be any further away from the truth. No matter how far we may stray away from the path that God has laid out for us; if we turn to Him in true repentance, He will receive us with arms wide open.

The above passage is the story Jesus told known by many as the Parable of the Prodigal Son/Lost Son. It says a lot and for the most part it is pretty easy to understand. However, I want to highlight verse 20 which says, So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him."

Notice after all the younger son had done, at the place called rock bottom, he made the choice to go and repent to his father. And I love what happens next. On his way back to his father's house, while he was yet still a long way off, his father saw him. His father was waiting, longing for his son's return. And when he saw his son, he didn't wait for his son to reach him and or say not one word to him. He had already perceived that his son had come to his senses and was coming to him with a repented heart. The father, I imagine, became excited. He became flooded with feelings of love and compassion for his son. Feeling this way he couldn't wait another second for his son to reach his house. So instead of waiting, he took off and ran to his son, meeting him where he was. Embraced his son, as he was, and probably with a great big old bear hug. And showered his son with kisses. Showing his son how much he was missed and how much he is loved.

The point that I'm trying to drive home is this; we can never mess up to the point to where God, our Heavenly Father, no longer desires to be in our lives. The exact same way the father reacted to his son's return in this parable is the exact same way that our Father reacts when we turn our lives back to Him, should we stray. Jesus loves us despite of whatever reason we can come up with that sets out to make that truth a lie. Jesus is always ready and willing to receive us, no matter what state of life we may find ourselves in, with arms wide open.

Thank God - 155 -

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 21:02:39 +0000

I Thank God for...

"So he spoke this parable to them, saying:
'What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it?

And when he has found it, he lays it upon his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost.'

I say to you that likewise, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety nine just persons who need no repentance."
-Luke 14:4-7

Thank God - 154 -

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 23:44:04 +0000

I Thank HIM for....

Thank God - 153 -

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 18:54:46 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

"Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth."

Revelation 5:6 (NIV)

Just How Powerful A Lord Is Jesus?

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:51:47 +0000

Most Christians know that Jesus was tempted by Satan before He began His earthly ministry. This story is found in (Matthew 4:1-11). However, even though we may be familiar with the event, we may not understand that even then, Jesus was teaching us a lesson. In order to fully appreciate what kind of Savior we have, let's consider a couple of facts surrounding the temptation of Christ.

First of all, Jesus set out to accomplish His earthly mission as much like us as He could be. This meant that at times, He either restricted or entirely set aside all His supernatural powers. He faced Satan head on, just as tempted by the "sparkling cup" of sin as we are. If Jesus had called upon His powers as "God incarnate," temptation would have had no effect on Him.

The result of that would have minimized His "humanity" in the eyes of mankind, and possibly diluted His entire message of salvation to the world. Yet His temptation was very real, not symbolic in any way. Ironically, Jesus knew that in order to validate His claim as the devine Savior, he had to triumph over sin as a mortal man...

What's more, by doing this, Christ Jesus taught us that we have the ability to throw off temptation by calling on God and the scriptures. Let's look at this text in Matthew chapter 4, to find a lesson from our Lord. Here we read: "After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said 'If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.' Jesus answered, 'It is written: "Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." '

Of course had "Jesus the Son" done as the evil one asked, the stones would have become bread. But as "Jesus the man," he leaned upon the strength of His Father to fight off temptation, and in so doing, teaches us to do the same. Continuing now in (VV 5-7), we read: "Then the devil took him to the holy city, (Jerusalem), and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 'If you are the Son of God,' he said, 'throw yourself down. For it is written: "He will command His angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." Jesus answered him 'It is also written: "Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' "

Again, Jesus fought back Satan's evil with the truth of scripture; setting aside His devine powers to resist the tempter with only human will power. The third and final test came in the form of a thirst for greed. Reading on in (vv8-11) we find "Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 'All this I will give you,' he said, 'if you will bow down and worship me.' Jesus said to him, 'Away from me, Satan! For it is written: "Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only." Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him."

No doubt this story was recorded for our edification in Christ. Imagine how hungry Jesus must have been after fasting 40 days and nights! Imagine how eager He was to "show up" the devil by casting Himself over the cliff to be saved by the angels of God! And consider how much wealth and power awaited Him in all of those kingdoms of earth! Yet, in each case, "Jesus the man" used nothing more than human self-control and God's word to fight off temptation. In this way, He passed the test of faithfulness to His Father in heaven, just as we should.

This story should make Jesus even more of a special Savior to us. At any point during His time on earth, from these temptations right up to the cross, He could have invoked His spiritual powers for help, yet He chose to remain as a "human man." As we have said, in every way, He was just as vulnerable to temptation, suffering, and pain as we are. Yet, in all this, He never committed a single sin...

What an ever powerful and glorious Savior we have!

Thank God - 152 -

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:31:44 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

When He opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, "Come and see." So I looked, and behold, a pale horse. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him.

And a power was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, with hunger, with death, and by the beasts of the earth.

Revelation 6:7-8

Thank God - 151 -

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:27:26 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

When He opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature saying, "Come and see." So I looked, and behold, a black horse, and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand.

And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, "A quart of wheat for a denarius and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not harm the oil and the wine."

Revelation 6:5-6

Thank God - 150 -

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 19:33:58 +0000

I Thank HIM for...

When He opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, "Come and see."

Another horse, fiery red, went out. And it was granted to the one who sat on it to take peace from the earth, and that people should kill one another; and there was given to him a great sword.

Revelation 6:3-4

Waiting On God's Promise

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 19:29:54 +0000

Genesis 12:7
The Lord appeared to Abram and said, To your offspring I will give this land.
What a great promise the Lord made to Abram.

Genesis 15:4
Then the word of the Lord came to him: This man will not be your heir, but a son coming from your own body will be your heir. He took him outside and said, Look up at the heavens and count the stars - if indeed you can count them. Then he said to him, So shall your offspring be.

Another great promise. Has the Lord made a promise to you. Something He has shown you that He is going to do for you but you are still waiting for Him?

10 years had past since the Lord had made that promise to Abram. His wife Sarai had not bore any children, Abram was 85 years old. Sarai decided to take matters into her own hands. Have you ever done that? She said to Abram, The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my maidservant; perhaps I can build a family through her. And so Ishmael was born threw Haggar. This was not the child that the Lord was speaking of, this was not the promise the Lord had given to Abram. The Lord said of Ishmael:
He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone s hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers.

We can see threw this story what happens when we take matters into our own hand not wait for the Lords appointed time. God s time is always right on time, we cannot rush Him, and who are we to even question.

Then Abram became Abraham, Sarai became Sarah. Abraham was 99 years old, Sarah 90. The Lord again appeared to Abraham telling him that, I will bless her (meaning Sarah) and will surely give you a son by her. What was Abrahams reaction to this? He laughed. And when Sarah heard of this what was her reaction? She laughed. What was the Lords reaction? He said, Is anything to hard for the Lord?

Is anything to hard for the Lord? That is the question today. If you are reading this, the Lord has lead you to it for a reason. Has the Lord made a promise to you? Have you been waiting for Him to fulfill that promise? He is saying to you, be patient. He wants to amaze you, be patient and allow Him to fulfill that promise. He will but it will be in His time. Don t rush into something that is not of God s promise, not of His plan for you. We can see plainly threw Ishmael what happens when we go against His special plan.

Psalm 146:5-6
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, the maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them - the Lord, who remains faithful forever.

Thank God - 149 -

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:27:58 +0000

I Thank HIM for

¹ Now I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals; and I heard one of the four living creatures saying with a voice like thunder, “Come and see.”
² And I looked, and behold, a white horse. He who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.

Revelation 6:1-2

Thank God - 148 -

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 21:08:12 +0000

I Thank HIM for